The Hall of Fame voice of the Texas Rangers Eric Nadel will not begin the season on the air due to "mental health issues," he says.
In a written statement, Nadel said he was "dealing with anxiety, insomnia, and depression," which will prevent him from starting the season with the team.
“I am receiving treatment as I go through the healing process and encourage others with similar issues to reach out for help," Nadel said.
This season will mark Nadel's 27th as the Rangers' lead radio voice, and 45th year overall broadcasting the club's games. He was a recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award in 2014, which is presented annually by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum for excellence in broadcasting. He called his first Rangers game in 1979.
Matt Hicks and Jared Sandler will handle play-by-play responsibilites in Nadel's absence. Hicks will begin his 10th season in the Rangers' radio booth, while Sandler begins his eigth as the pre- and post-game host and fill-in play-by-play broadcaster.
"I am tremendously grateful to Matt and Jared for the superb job they are doing in my absence. Rangers’ management has been wonderful to me," Nadel said. "I thank them for their concern, kindness, and understanding. Rangers' fans have always given me tremendous support, and I ask for their continued support at this time and in the future."
The Rangers open the regular season at home against the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday, March 30. The Rangers can be heard all season on KRLD's sister station 105.3 The Fan.
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